HAMPSHIRE schools are getting ready for the charge as we are just nine days away from the big event.

And four Hampshire schools will have their very own sculpture for the Go! Rhinos public art extravaganza thanks to sponsorship from Winchester City Council, who stumped up the cash for their mini rhinos.

C o u n c i l l o r Robert Humby met the four painted rhinos at Marwell Wildlife, which belong to Winnall Primary School, Wickham C of E Primary School, Stanmore Primary School and All Saints C of E Primary School.

All the rhinos will soon be taking their place on a trail through Southampton offering families a unique day out, while providing a boost to the local economy.

Councillor Humby says: “Go! Rhinos is a creative project that has brought Marwell out into the community, in our streets and in our schools.

“We are proud to have sponsored participation by four of the schools in our district. The finished rhinos are not only eye-catching but thoughtful too. I am sure the children have found this a really exciting and engaging way to learn about wildlife conservation.”

There will be a total of 61 mini rhinos along the ten-week trail, which starts on July 13, alongside 36 life-sized sculptures all with their own unique design.

When the trail ends, the sculptures will be auctioned off, with the proceeds being split between Marwell’s rhino conservation work, the Rose Road Association and Wessex Heartbeat’s HIGH 5 Appeal.